DES MOINES, IOWA (August 17, 2023) — Eighteen months after Iowa revamped its approach to unemployment and began providing earlier job-search assistance to people seeking unemployment benefits, the average length of an unemployment claim has dropped to its lowest level in more than 55 years.

A recent review of Iowa Workforce Development data shows that unemployment claims lasted for an average of 10.7 weeks in calendar year 2022 – 10.1 weeks for the 12 months that ended May 31, 2023.

DES MOINES, IOWA (August 15, 2023) — State Treasurer Roby Smith is preparing to launch the upcoming Great Iowa Treasure Hunt fall publication list containing the most recent names of past and present Iowans with unclaimed property waiting for them in the Great Iowa Treasure Hunt. "Having unclaimed funds is more common than you might think," said Treasurer Smith.

LECLAIRE, IOWA (August 11, 2023) — Emily Found It, a new vintage-clothing and home-decor boutique in downtown LeClaire, Iowa, opened on July 17, 2023.

The shop is owned by Emily Gwin, former store manager of Antique Archaeology and American Pickers.

DES MOINES, IOWA (August 8, 2023) — The Iowa Hotel and Lodging Association is seeking nominations for its first-ever Sustainability Award (Presented by WoodRiver Energy). This award will recognize an Iowa hotel or lodging establishment committed to excellence and leadership in the protection of the environment and the implementation of sustainable practices.